Hurst Green - River Ribble - Stonyhurst

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This is a pleasant stroll which initially follows the River Ribble along the Ribble Way. Close to Lower Hodder Bridge the walk leads up to the Stonyhurst College Estate and returns to Hurst Green through meadow land.

The path starts at the gate in the car park of the Shireburn Arms. Go straight downhill following the ditch; after 300 yd cross the ditch and continue to the wood. Go over the stile across the beck and down to the Ribble. (This descent is quite steep in places and can be muddy in wet weather). The Ribble Way hugs the river all the way to Winckley Farm. (A short cut is possible: just before Jumbles take the road on the left to Fox Fields. Carry on to the main road. Turn right to Knowles Brow). At Winkley Farm the path zigzags through the farmyard and leads to the farm road going uphill. As the road bends to the left, a Ribble Way sign is seen on the right next to a small metal gate. The path is well defined. Go through a second gate and follow the edge of the wood. The path ends at the road opposite a stone bus shelter. (1hr 15 min)
Cross the main road and follow the road (Knowles Brow) up the hill for about half a mile. Turn left at the first track leading into the Stonyhurst Estate (just before the post box). Turn right after the long brick barn of Hall Barn Farm on the left and walk to the church. (20 min)
Just before the church and after the Observatory turn left through the metal gate into the field alongside the wood. Follow the edge of the wood and then the hedge. The path passes through three metal swing gates and leads to Smithy Row, Hurst Green. (15 min)